What is the best way to get out of the Salt Lake County Jail?

There are several ways to get out of the Salt Lake County Jail.  Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.  Which method may be best for you can depend on your specific circumstances.  Consulting with an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer first can help you make the best decision.

For most cases, a judge will set a bail amount.  If you are able to post the full amount of the bail, you will be released from jail.  If you appear in court for all scheduled court dates while your case is pending, the bail amount will be refunded to you.  If you do not appear at all scheduled court dates, the bail amount may be forfeited.

If you do not have enough money to post the full bail amount, you may be able to have a bond posted through a bail bondsman or bond company.  Bond companies typically charge a non-refundable fee in the amount of 10% of the cash bail amount.  You may also be required to put up collateral with the bond company such as allowing the bond company to put a lien on your home.

But posting bail is not always th best way to get out of jail.  In Salt Lake County, you may be eligible for release without bail through Pre-Trial Services.  Although a release through Pre-Trial Services may take a little longer than posting bail, it can save you sometimes thousands of dollars.

The cost of bailing out can also be substantially reduced if the judge agrees to lower the bail amount.  Typically when the initial bail amount is set, the judge is acting only based on information from the police and prosecutor.  An experienced criminal lawyer may be able to help you convince the judge to dramatically reduce the bail amount.

Contact us now for a free consultation your criminal case in Salt Lake County, or anywhere in Utah.